The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) clinched two major awards at the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) 2025, a global aviation event held in the United Kingdom.
Making its debut at the airshow, PAF’s JF-17 Thunder Block-III received the Spirit of the Meet trophy. The award is presented to the aircraft that best represents the spirit of RIAT, one of the world’s most prestigious military aviation gatherings.
PAF’s C-130H Hercules also earned high praise. The aircraft, painted in a special livery themed 'Eyes in the Skies', won the Concours d’Elegance trophy. This honor recognizes the best-maintained and most visually striking aircraft at the show.
According to Pakistan military's media wing, air force leaders from around the world praised the PAF’s professionalism and aircraft presentation during the Air Chiefs’ Conference at RIAT.
Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu congratulated the PAF team on their success.
“Keeping the nation’s flag high has always been the hallmark of the Pakistan Air Force,” he said. “Winning these prestigious awards is a testament to our professionalism, technical expertise, and relentless pursuit of excellence.”
He also commended the team for showcasing Pakistan’s true potential with pride and dignity.
PAF has a history of success at RIAT, with previous honors in 2006, 2016, and 2018. This year’s wins further solidify its position among the world’s top air forces.
Pakistan’s military added that the recognition is a source of national pride and a boost to the country’s growing aerospace capabilities.
This year’s triumph for the air force comes against the backdrop of the May standoff between Pakistan and India, during which Pakistan claimed to have shot down five Indian jets in air-to-air combat after India launched strikes on multiple Pakistani cities.
India’s top military official later admitted that New Delhi was forced to shift tactics after suffering early aerial losses.
U.S. President Donald Trump also stated on Friday that up to five jets were downed during the confrontation.
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